The event at Harvard Law School centers on the dire need for accountability and justice for victims of Sri Lanka’s long-standing conflict. Led by expert panelists, the discussion will explore domestic efforts’ inadequacies and the essential role of the international community in supporting victims seeking reparations and recognition.
The event titled “Accountability, Reconciliation and Transitional Justice in Sri Lanka: Role of the International Community” is an enlightening symposium focused on the ongoing struggle of victims from Sri Lanka’s prolonged internal conflict, which lasted nearly thirty years. The discussion promises to delve into the shortcomings of domestic transitional justice, striving toward a future where victims can achieve truthful recognition and reparations. Panelists Kate Cronin-Furman and Thyagi Ruwanpathirana provide their insights on international advocacy and the pressing need to amplify the voices of those seeking justice amidst skepticism toward local initiatives.
Sri Lanka’s internal armed conflict, a saga of turmoil stretching across three decades, has left scars marked by loss, suffering, and an unrelenting quest for truth and justice. Victims of this historical tragedy continue to demand accountability for flagrant violations of human rights, yet local transitional justice efforts remain disjointed and lack genuine political backing. The emergence of a new government has rekindled discussions about a Truth and Reconciliation Commission; however, faith in these mechanisms is frail, prompting the need for robust international support to secure redress for impacted communities.
In sum, this hybrid event highlights the critical need for sustained international involvement in Sri Lanka’s journey toward justice and reconciliation. Panelists underscore that while domestic efforts are faltering, the international community has a pivotal role in fostering an environment conducive for truth-seeking and reparative measures. As the victims navigate their quest for rights and acknowledgment, the collaboration of global allies stands as a beacon of hope in the shadows of historical injustices.
Original Source: hrp.law.harvard.edu
